"I met Rosemary when I joined water aerobics; we had an immediate connection. We bonded during exercise classes, water aerobics and when she was on her almost daily walks. She inspired me to be the best I could be and I was blessed by her sharing her \'space\' with me. I will miss just knowing she shares the same air .... what a wonderful lady. Jeani Smith"
In loving memory of
Rosemary Irwin
August 28, 1924 - June 21, 2021
Rosemary Irwin of Austin TX passed away June 21, 2021 at the age of 96. She was born August 28, 1924, in Springfield Illinois, to Rose E. (Self) and Dennis K. McCarthy. She attended Ursuline Academy and later Springfield community college where she met her future husband, William Kenneth Irwin. They were united in marriage December 28, 1950.
In the early 1960's the couple moved to Davenport, Iowa where they raised their 7 children. In 1980, tired of the cold midwest winters, they retired and moved to Austin Texas, taking up residence in the Onion Creek Neighborhood. Rosemary remained in that home until 2019.
Rosemary was physically and socially active in her community. She enjoyed bike rides, tennis, exercise classes, and volunteer work. She was a member of the Onion Creek Country Club Ladie's Tennis League. She also enjoyed her daily walks, sometimes logging up to 5 miles a day into her late 80's. Rosemary loved adventure and travel. Before she married, she worked for the FBI and was stationed in Washington DC and Puerto Rico. She even took flying lessons but had to quit due to inner ear issues. She proudly lived independently in her own home, driving her own car, up until three years ago.
Mrs. Irwin was preceded in death by her husband Kenneth, her parents, sister Nancy J. McCarthy, brothers Dennis J. McCarthy and Frederick J. McCarthy, and son John F. Irwin.
Those left to honor Mrs. Irwin are her children Kathleen E. Kiley; Nancy L. Schroeder (Michael); Guy Irwin; Jane M. Warren (Kendall); Julie A. Irwin; Rene Kerr (Harry); sister-in-law Leora McCarthy, eleven grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and a multitude of friends along with special friends Minnie, Karen, Lorna, MaryEllen and The Bevs.
Poet Maya Angelou said: People may not remember what you did or said, but they always remember how you made them feel. Rosemary made everyone feel special. She had an infectious zest for living and displayed this when approaching any activity. Time spent with her was like being the guest of honor at the best party you'll ever attend. Private services will be held. A Celebration of Rosemary's life will be held later this year.